Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has expressed his immense pride after marking his UEFA Champions League debut for Atlético Madrid with a clinical goal. The 28-year-old played a pivotal role in Diego Simeone’s side during their high-octane 3-3 draw against Club Brugge on Wednesday night. Lookman doubled the Spanish giants’ lead in first-half stoppage time, reacting sharpest to poke home a flick-on from Antoine Griezmann and cementing his status as a key figure in the “Rojiblancos” attack since his high-profile January transfer from Atalanta.
The Nigerian international has enjoyed an explosive start to life in Madrid, recording three goals and two assists in just four appearances across all competitions. His latest strike in Belgium makes him the first player since Héctor Herrera to score on his Champions League debut for the club. Despite Atlético twice surrendering the lead in what was a “rollercoaster” encounter, Lookman remains focused on the bigger picture as the team returns to Spain for the decisive leg of the knockout play-off.
“Happy to make my debut in the Champions League for this club. 90 minutes to play for it all at the Metropolitano,” Lookman wrote on X.
Lookman’s arrival has provided a significant boost to Simeone’s offensive options, particularly following his recent heroics in the Copa del Rey against Barcelona. The forward’s ability to find the net consistently has helped alleviate the pressure on fellow attackers Julián Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann. With the aggregate score currently locked at 3-3, the pressure now shifts to the Metropolitano Stadium, where Atlético possesses a formidable home record in European competition.
The return fixture, scheduled for next Tuesday, February 24, will determine which side progresses to the Round of 16 to face either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur. Lookman’s form suggests he will be one of the first names on the teamsheet as Atlético seeks to secure their first continental trophy. Supporters expect a sell-out crowd in Madrid as the “Colchoneros” aim to finish the job and continue their quest for Champions League glory.
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